Photo taken at ceremony— Det Norske Veritas, HD Hyundai Mipo and Corvus Energy have signed an Approval in Principle (AiP) for a dual-fuel powered product tanker, as part of a joint development project (JDP). Pictured from left: Vidar Dolonen, SVP Regional Manager Korea & Japan Maritime, DNV; George Novak, VP Commercial Services, LISCR, LLC (Liberian Registry); Dong-Hyun Woo, Head of Hull Initial Design & Technology Strategy Planning Dept., HD Hyundai MIPO; Svenn Kjetil Haveland, Interim EVP & Head of Fuel Cell, Corvus Energy; Catrine Vestereng, SVP Global Business Director Tankers, DNV img src: https://fuelcellsworks.com/2025/06/06/clean-energy/corvus-energy-partners-with-hd-hyundai-mipo-for-aip-on-new-green-product-tanker-design
Powering the Future: Corvus Energy and HD Hyundai Mipo Join Forces to Launch a Sustainable, Zero-Emission Product Tanker
June 7, 2025 — Maritime Innovation Desk
In a groundbreaking move toward sustainable maritime operations, Corvus Energy has partnered with HD Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HD HMD) to co-develop a next-generation green product tanker that incorporates advanced zero-emission energy systems. This collaborative effort is expected to result in an Approval in Principle (AiP) for the eco-friendly vessel, positioning it as a trailblazer in the decarbonization of the commercial shipping sector.
As the maritime industry pushes to meet IMO 2050 targets and reduce carbon footprints, this new tanker concept represents a significant shift from conventional propulsion systems to hybrid-electric and fuel-cell-powered technologies. At the core of the design is Corvus Energy’s cutting-edge battery systems, which will work in tandem with other clean energy components, possibly including hydrogen fuel cells, to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
“This partnership is a clear signal that the shipping industry is accelerating its commitment to a greener future,” said a Corvus spokesperson. “By combining our zero-emission energy storage systems with HD Hyundai Mipo’s shipbuilding expertise, we’re shaping the blueprint for tomorrow’s low-carbon fleets.”
The envisioned eco-tanker is designed with operational flexibility in mind, enabling owners to transition from conventional fuels to fully electric or hybrid propulsion systems as infrastructure and regulations evolve. This aligns with the rising global demand for sustainable maritime logistics and regulatory compliance in emission-controlled areas (ECAs).
Why This Matters:
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First-of-its-kind product tanker integrating Corvus’ energy storage solutions at this scale
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AiP underway, opening doors to commercial applications in the near term
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Strengthens Korea’s leadership in green shipbuilding innovation
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Supports IMO decarbonization strategies and zero-emission port goals
This initiative not only boosts green tech adoption in the shipping industry but also creates a viable template for other vessel types—from ferries to container ships—looking to transition to low or zero emissions.
